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No return date set for Farrell

Farrell is yet to play this season for the defending Premiership and European champions, after picking up a back injury prior to the start of the season.

McCall previously claimed that the injury was “not serious” back at the end of August but Farrell’s recovery from the injury is taking longer than expected.

New signing Alex Lozowski has started in each of Saracens four matches this season, of which they have won three.

When asked about when Farrell could be expected back of the field, McCall replied: “I don’t know. I’m not trying to hide anything, but we don’t know.

“He has a back issue. Whenever he can do everything he needs to do, he will play. At the minute he can’t.”

Speaking at the Premiership launch for this season’s Champions Cup, McCall also discussed his side’s opening fixture against previous winners Toulon.

Former Bath boss Mike Ford was added to the Toulon coaching staff this week, with McCall expecting an immediate impact from Ford and a strong performance from Toulon as well after a mixed start to the season in the Top 14.

“I haven’t really paid much attention to them to be honest. I’m more concerned about Bristol on Friday night,” he said.

“But, they are the kind of team who raise their game when they have to. They have good players across the board.

“I think Mike Ford will improve them pretty quickly to be honest. He should make a difference and I will be surprised if he doesn’t. It’s an exciting game.”